By This Pimento Cheese Spread balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Pimento Cheese Spread captures the essence of meals while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Pimento Cheese Spread becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
8 ounces (225 g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
1 ½ cups (180 g) extra sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
¼ cup (60 g) mayonnaise
½ cup (4 ounces) jarred pimento, finely diced (approximately 4 ounces drained weight)
¼ teaspoon onion powder
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (optional), to taste
PREPARATION STEPS
In a large bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Use a spatula or a hand mixer on low speed to mix until well combined.
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and finely diced pimento until evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3
Add the onion powder and garlic powder to the cheese mixture
Season with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for added spice
Mix until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Transfer the prepared pimento cheese to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
5
Serve the pimento cheese spread as a delicious topping for crackers, as a filling for sandwiches, or as a dip alongside fresh vegetables such as celery sticks, carrots, and bell peppers.
Prep Time: 10 min
Total Time: 10 min
Servings: 2
ORIGIN STORY
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 35 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~300 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRING
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
